Mandatory Testing of Drivers on the Basis of Age and Degenerative Diseases: Stakeholder Opinions

Abstract

Concerns about the driving competence of older drivers have led to policy discussions about mandatory aged-based and disorder-based assessments. This study explored the attitudes, beliefs, and preferences of older adults, law enforcement officers, and licensing authorities toward reexamination of driving skills for persons with Alzheimer's disease (AD) and Parkinson's disease (PD) and at varying ages. With few exceptions, participants across all groups supported retesting drivers with AD. Moderate support was given for further evaluation of 90-year-olds and those with PD. Least endorsement was given for reassessment of 70-year-old drivers. Findings have implications for legislative changes to address drivers with AD and PD and at older ages.

KEYWORDS:

• Alzheimer's disease
• licensing
• mandatory age-based assessment
• older drivers
• Parkinson's disease

The authors thank Susie Palmer and Jody Oscarson of the Minnesota Department of Public Safety for their support and assistance with this project.

Notes

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